“In seeking there are several things involved: there is the seeker and the thing that he seeks after. When the seeker finds what he thinks is truth, is God, is enlightenment, he must be able to recognize it. He must recognize it, right? Recognition implies previous knowledge, otherwise you cannot recognize. So a man who is seeking truth lives a life of hypocrisy, because his truth is the projection of his memory, of his desire, of his intentions to find something other than “what is”, a formula. So seeking implies duality — the one who seeks and the thing sought after — and where there is duality there is conflict. There is wastage of energy. So you can never find it, you can never invite it.” ~ J Krishnamurti
Enlightenment has become a goal for many spiritual seekers. You read spiritual books, watch lectures of different gurus or philosophers, read articles on methods of enlightenment, follow practices recommended by different spiritual leaders in the hope that you too achieve enlightenment. After reading so much about it, you form an image in your head about how an enlightened person should be, the qualities and certain characteristics, the method and tone of speech, the manners, behaviour, so on and so forth. What is Enlightenment? Is it a state of continuous bliss where no problems affect you in any way? Is it a state that transcends all knowledge and wisdom? Do you achieve it only when you live in a monastery? Is it a clear vision? You begin to form pre-conceived notions and ideas based on the information you have gathered on your journey as described by others, who have perhaps, experienced enlightenment. How will you know what people are saying is from direct experience? You believe them based on your belief system or faith in that particular teaching. So the goal is to achieve a certain ‘state’ which you haven’t achieved yet, based on what others have ‘experienced’. How will you know when you actually find it because everyone’s experience is different? Due to our fixed concepts and beliefs ingrained in your mind about enlightenment, it keeps you away from finding or experiencing what it truly is.
Leave a Comment